Alcoholic Neuropathy: Symptoms

What are the symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy?

Alcoholic neuropathy may result in a number of symptoms, all of which are related to nerve damage and can vary in intensity. Symptoms of muscle weakness and sensitivity to touch typically develop on both sides of the body. These symptoms occur more often in the legs than in the arms and gradually become worse over time.

Common symptoms of alcoholic neuropathy

You may experience alcoholic neuropathy symptoms daily or just once in a while. At times any of these nerve symptoms can be severe and will depend on the nerves affected:

Symptoms that might indicate a serious condition

In some cases, alcoholic neuropathy can be a serious condition that should be evaluated immediately in an emergency setting. Seek immediate medical care if you, or someone you are with, have any of these serious symptoms including:

What is alcoholic neuropathy?

Alcoholic neuropathy is a disease associated with chronic alcohol abuse that is characterized by damage to the nervous system. Alcoholic neuropathy can affect the brain as well as nerves situated anywhere in the body including the feet, hands, muscles, gastrointestinal system, and reproductive system. Although the exact cause of alcoholic neuropathy is not known, it is thought to result from al...
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What causes alcoholic neuropathy?

Alcoholic neuropathy is a disease characterized by impaired nerve function caused by excessive drinking of alcohol and nutritional deficits related to alcohol abuse. Individuals who have suffered from alcoholism for 10 or more years or who drink excessive amounts of alcohol regularly have a high risk of alcoholic neuropathy.